Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has entered into an agreement with Bear Grylls Survival Academy to establish and operate a location on Jebel Jais as part of its ongoing drive to attract more adventure seekers from around the world.

Haitham Mattar, chief executive officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, announced the latest addition to the emirate’s varied portfolio of adventure tourism products at Arabian Travel Market earlier.

A brainchild of Bear Grylls, the most recognised face of survival and outdoor adventure, the Bear Grylls Survival Academy offers thrill seekers an opportunity to learn his extreme survival techniques at 20 locations around the world.

The partnership with Bear Grylls Survival Academy is a testimony of Ras Al Khaimah’s ongoing efforts to expand and develop its adventure tourism offering in what is fast becoming known as the region’s adventure tourism hub.

The Bear Grylls Survival Academy on Jebel Jais, which is scheduled to open in quarter one 2020, will offer participants a wide selection of courses suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels.

The courses include half-day (five to six hours), 24 and 48-hour courses designed for families and adults; team building activities for corporates; and instructor courses for outdoor enthusiasts, where participants will be exposed to practical and extreme survival techniques necessary to survive some of the toughest terrain in the wilderness.

Mattar said: “We are pleased to announce our partnership with the Bear Grylls Survival Academy on the upcoming academy on Jebel Jais.

“This partnership to establish our upcoming adventure product recognises a sector of our tourism proposition that is fundamental to the growth of Ras Al Khaimah as a global destination.

“With the increasing number of visitors, we’re witnessing year on year, we believe that the introduction of new adventure attractions is essential to maintain Ras Al Khaimah’s strong position on the world tourism map.”

The emirate already presents an extensive selection of adrenaline-fuelled activities from hiking, trekking and cycling to rock climbing, mountain biking and kayaking.

Paul Gardiner, managing director of Bear Grylls Survival Academy, said: “As the UAE’s highest mountain with its breath-taking views and adrenaline-packed activities, Jebel Jais is the perfect choice of destination to expand our presence in the region. Attracting thrill seekers from around the world, Jebel Jais is truly the nature adventure hub of the Middle East.

“We look forward to welcoming Ras Al Khaimah’s visitors at the Bear Grylls Survival Academy for a new memorable and thrilling experience.”

In recent years, Ras Al Khaimah has shown a strong potential to become a sustainable and competitive tourism destination in the region.

As defined in its destination strategy 2019-2021, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority will continue to prioritise sustainable nature-based adventure experiences with ambitious goal to secure 1.5 million visitors by 2021 and 3 million visitors by 2025.

The emirates is considered Middle East’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination by voters at the World Travel Awards.

More Information

Take a look below as Paul Gardiner explains the decision making behind the decision to Breaking Travel News: